Roy Bennett has been appointed Managing Director of the Smooth FM Brand, overseeing both the development of the North West station and the launch of the brand in London in June this year.

As Managing Director Roy has driven Smooth FM to huge success in the North West since it hit the airwaves in March 2004 and one of his first duties in his extended role will be to work closely with GMG Radio Chief Executive John Myers in overseeing the transition from 102.2 JAZZFM to Smooth FM in the capital.

The Guardian Media Group Radio owned stations provide a mellow mix of soulful music from artists such as Lemar, Michael Buble, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys.

Roy?s experience and knowledge of the Smooth FM Brand will further strengthen the day-to-day management team at the station and will ensure that the brand values are consistent.

100.4 Smooth FM in the North West, which underwent a similar rebrand last year, recorded the highest ever audience figures for the frequency in the Q4 2004 RAJAR and has quadrupled revenue.

GMG Radio is set to invest in a multi-million pound tv and outdoor marketing campaign to attract new listeners to tune into Smooth FM in London following its launch on Tuesday 7th June.

Roy joined GMG Radio in 2000 as Managing Director of its first station Real Radio in Wales. He moved to the North West to launch the Smooth FM brand at the end of 2003. Prior to joining GMG Radio Roy worked was regional Sales Manager for Mirror Group?s Cable TV operation.

Roy will report to GMG Radio Group Operations Director Shaun Bowron, who said: ?Roy has done a phenomenal job in the North West and will now extend that experience and knowledge to our London station. Smooth FM is a powerful brand and Roy will develop it to its full potential on both our analogue and digital platforms.?

Roy Bennett said: ?I?m looking forward to working with the team in London and to the successful launch of Smooth FM in the capital. Long term I?ll be working to ensure that we maximise the commercial opportunities for the Smooth FM brand as a whole.?

GMG Radio Chief Executive John Myers has also been acting Managing Director at JAZZFM since January and will now fully resume his role as CEO as the company continues to look at new opportunities for growth. He will maintain a close active involvement in the London launch of 102.2 Smooth FM.